Security for Lighting of the Lawn on November 30, 2017

As we enter the holiday season and students and faculty prepare for the final weeks of fall term, the University community will come together for the 17th annual Lighting of the Lawn celebration. The event is scheduled for Thursday, November 30th beginning at 7:00 p.m. Student organizers have been planning for many months and coordinating with staff to create a memorable evening for the community with a theme this year of Be the Light.

Security for the Lighting of the Lawn will be similar to security at other large-scale events this fall, including football and basketball games, concerts, and the Bicentennial Launch. Access to the Lawn and Rotunda will be restricted beginning at 4:30 p.m. on November 30th. A representative from the Provost’s Office will contact faculty members and other instructors scheduled to hold classes in Pavilion VIII and the Rotunda that will run past 4:30 p.m. with alternate locations. All those in Cocke Hall, Old Cabell Hall, New Cabell Hall, and Rouss/Robertson will need to leave via rear exits after 4:30 p.m.

Attendees will access the Lawn through entrance points located at Garrett Hall on the west side and Rouss/Robertson on the east side. Walk-through and hand-held metal detectors will be used to screen guests at all entrances beginning at 6:00 p.m. Pavilion and Lawn residents may enter through Patterson Alley on the west side and Key Alley on the east side.

Each attendee may carry a clear bag that does not exceed 12”x6”x12” onto the Lawn. One small clutch bag, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap also is permitted.

Exceptions will be made for items necessary for medical reasons, after proper inspections.

Students with Backpacks

Attendees who are coming from class and are unable to leave their bags at home may bring them, but will be required to enter through a designated line at Garrett Hall on the west side or Rouss/Robertson on the east side, where each bag will be hand-screened. To expedite entry to the Lawn through security checkpoints, guests are strongly encouraged to leave backpacks and other bags at home.

I look forward to celebrating on the Lawn with our University community on November 30th. Best wishes to all of you for the Thanksgiving holiday and for the busy final days of the semester.